By the way: It has always been a wonder to me that Tony Blair turned so early and so strongly to addressing the Northern Ireland mess after he became Prime Minister. Northern Ireland poses many risks for a British Prime Minister with few obvious clear benefits. I have long suspected that his decision to risk so much of his political capital on Northern Ireland, with its long history of intractable religious fighting, was likely influenced by his wife, Cheri, a devout Catholic and one of the best lawyers in Britain.

Few would now dispute the amazing good Mr. Blair has worked in Northern Ireland. It now appears that British experience in Northern Ireland may be key in capturing Baghdad with minimal civilian casualties.

Sometimes it seems clear that there must be a benevolent God, and that some good deeds aren't punished.